Trend Watch: Innovation in design

From the Pyramids of Egypt and the Burj Khalifa to the most innovative, man-made materials; resourcefulness, inventiveness, out-of-the-box thinking and the will to experiment underscore the very best of human creations. This is not a trend, but the way of pioneering design. Downtown Design 2017 celebrates this spirit in abundance.

Image source: Kettal

Experimenting with, and developing new technologies is at the heart of all that Renson do. Renson Skye, the Belgian brand’s latest offering of smart terrace coverings features rotating, retractable aluminium bladed roofing systems that respond to change in climate. Kettal caters to the outdoor lifestyle with its collection of expressive and stylish outdoor furniture. Its beauty is matched by the brand’s passion for developing pioneering finishes; 100% recyclable paint for example.

Image source: Occhio

One of the most forward thinking companies in the lighting industry, Occhio develops holistic, multifunctional luminaire and spotlight systems. Integrating LED and electronics in one compact module, their VOLT range allows for seamless plug & play lighting options. Their IO spotlights offer unique movability through a highly advanced 3D system. On the other hand, Marset focusses on new-age materiality. From laminated illumination bands that can wrap around a column to exploring fluid use of ceramic, the Spanish lighting brand thrives on curiosity, creativity and exactitude.

Image source: Gaggenau

The German domestic appliances brand Gaggenau continues to push the envelope with their high-precision, Flex induction cooktops that feature an integrated ventilation system, so that you don’t need to monitor the air quality.

Image source: Kesseböhmer & VD-Works

Kesseböhmer & VD-Works engineer and build key elements of their production machinery to deliver high-precision cabinetry and panelling without compromise on design.

Image source: Antonio Lupi

One of the first to embrace minimalism in bathroom design, Antonio Lupi continually build on their envy inducing portfolio, where exceptional design is made possible by their commitment to experimentation. The impossibly thin edge of the AGO85 collection, their latest offering, was manufactured in Flumood, a new-age, high-performance composite material.

Pratyush Sarup, a Dubai-based Consulting Editor and Journalist specialising in architecture, design and art, is one of the most regarded analytical authorities on design in the Middle East. Follow him on Instagram @pratyush.sarup.